It comes down to a simple formula - comfort equals concentration and contentment. If children have furniture shaped to support their bodies’ best posture, they can stay focused on the work, play or lunch in front of them.
The chart below is a guide based on international averages for children’s size by age. As you are aware, there is great variation within one year, and everyone is growing fast. You may wish to order chairs in several heights, so you can fit each child appropriately and adapt as time goes on.
Chair seat height is the most important calculation you can make. If a child's feet are flat on the floor and his knees are bent at a 90° angle, you have correct chair for ergonomic, comfortable seating. The chart below gives you chair height recommendations by age.
Then pick a table to match. Table tops should be 8 inches above the chair seat, so the table and chair can work together for a child's good posture. (There's a little leeway for toddlers—see guidelines below the chart.)
Chair Height Guidelines
* For small chairs see Me-Do-It Chairs.
Table Top Height Guidelines
Rule: Add 8" to chair height to determine table top height.
Exceptions:
- 5" Chair Height: Use 12" table top height
- 6-1/2" Chair Height: Use 14" table top height
- Classroom Desks: Add 10" to the chair height to get a desk height with leg room under the storage compartment.
